Isaac Moses Etudaye Honoured for Composing the Official YABATECH Anthem
African Art Times Editorial Board 
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Isaac Moses Etudaye
In a moment that harmonized creativity, identity, and excellence, Isaac Moses Etudaye, a gifted musician and graduate of Metallurgical Engineering, was honoured on May 23, 2025, by Yaba College of Technology for his outstanding music composition of the institution’s new official anthem.
Isaac Moses Etudaye, born on July 1, 1999, is a passionate Nigerian musician and a graduate of Yaba College of Technology, where he studied Metallurgical Engineering. He currently serves as the Assistant Organist at the Anglican Church of the Ascension, Opebi, and is widely recognized for his deep love for music, particularly as an accomplished organist and pianist.
The award presentation took place during a highly significant occasion — the second-year anniversary celebration of the Rector, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul’s administration. This symbolic timing underscored the administration’s continued commitment to fostering talent, innovation, and cultural pride within the institution.
The recognition, presented by both the Chairman of the Governing Council and Rector Dr. Abdul, spotlighted Isaac’s remarkable musical contribution to the legacy of one of Nigeria’s most prestigious polytechnics.
A New Voice for a Timeless Institution
YABATECH, renowned for academic and technical excellence, sought a new anthem that would reflect its evolving mission and honor its rich history. Isaac’s composition rose to the top—not only for its musical elegance but also for capturing the heart of the institution’s values: innovation, service, and national pride.
The anthem—infused with structure, emotion, and lyrical precision—was brought to life through Isaac’s musical creativity and the lyrical collaboration of Ibukunoluwa Damilare, his close associate. Together, they created a rousing piece that now officially represents YABATECH’s spirit and future.
YABATECH ANTHEM
Composer: Isaac Moses Etudaye
Lyrics: Ogunmola Ibukunoluwa D.
Verse 1
Innovation is our creed,
progress is our guide
Building strong country leaders,
YABATECH! the Nation’s pride
Refrain
YABATECH! Learning and Service,
YABATECH! Our beacon of light!
Always guiding our life’s path
YABATECH! Our shining Star!
Verse 2
With hands and minds that ignite
Our dreams take to flight,
With the quest for knowledge,
YABATECH! our Heritage.
From Engineering to Artistry
Isaac’s Inspiring Journey
Isaac’s story is one of rare versatility. A graduate of Metallurgical Engineering, his heart has always resonated with music. His transition from formulas and furnaces to harmony and hymnody was encouraged by a fortuitous encounter.
While attending a memorial organ concert for the late Baba Kayode Oni at Hoares Memorial Methodist Church, Isaac unexpectedly reunited with his former Linear Algebra lecturer, Mr. Akin Loko, affectionately known as Sir Loko. Discovering they shared a passion for organ music, the two exchanged contacts, and a mentorship was born.
Though Mr. Loko was no longer teaching him at the time, he remained a guiding voice. When YABATECH announced the anthem competition, Sir Loko encouraged Isaac to try. Despite initial hesitation, Isaac took the challenge—one that would change the course of his artistic life.
“I know if I hadn’t won the competition, I may never have considered composition seriously,” Isaac reflects. “But that trial gave me a new sense of purpose.”
Endorsed by Excellence
The anthem was evaluated by a distinguished jury led by Prof. Stephen Olusoji of the University of Lagos—adding prestige and credibility to Isaac’s win. The panel praised his work for its artistic integrity, melodic depth, and institutional relevance.
Isaac’s achievement is more than a creative success—it’s a well-earned honor built on a foundation of study, discipline, and passion.
A Musician Built by Years of Training
Isaac’s accolades are backed by rigorous musical training. He is a certified alumnus of the MUSON School of Music, where he completed several grades in piano and organ performance:
• Grade 3 Piano
• Grade 4 Piano
• Grade 5 Piano – Distinction
• Grade 5 Organ – Merit
He began formal training in 2017 and continues to nurture his gift through performances and church service. Isaac currently serves as Assistant Organist at the Anglican Church of the Ascension, Opebi, where he combines his deep spiritual connection with technical proficiency in music.
Isaac Moses and Dr Balogun Adeola
A Future in Harmony
As the audience rose to applaud during the award presentation, the message was clear: Isaac Moses Etudaye’s voice matters—not only as a musician but as a symbol of possibility for young creatives across Nigeria.
This award is a cornerstone in his journey, affirming that even within a world of science and structure, creativity can flourish. And now, with a powerful anthem echoing across YABATECH’s halls, Isaac’s name is forever woven into the institution’s story.
At African Art Times, we believe that when education meets expression, and mentorship meets motivation, excellence is inevitable. Isaac Moses Etudaye is living proof.
Let the anthem play on.
Find below a copy of the music sheet.
